Australians aged 65 and over, who constitute the majority of adults missing out on free, age-related vaccinations (influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia and shingles), have an equal right to protection against life-threatening illnesses.

“Vaccination rates are significantly higher among infants versus their grandparents, despite the availability of free vaccines for both groups. This demonstrates the lower value that society places on keeping older Australians healthy,” said UNSW VIRL Head, Professor Raina MacIntyre, Sydney.